A-League heads west

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THE future of Gold Coast United remained in the balance after Football Federation Australia announced that a new A-League club will be launched into the competition from next season.

The establishment of the new club, which as yet is nameless, was announced at the Football NSW headquarters at Valentine Sports Park, Glenwood, where Prime Minister Julia Gillard unveiled an $8 million funding package for football development in Western Sydney.

FFA chief executive Ben Buckley said the FFA was delighted with the government's funding support and said the new club would have a core focus on community engagement.

"In partnership with Football NSW, FFA will ensure the club is truly integrated in community football, schools programs and the elite player pathway," he said.

"We intend to build a model that will be driven by the passion of the football people in Sydney's west."

Mr Buckley said the inclusion of the new Western Sydney club would be a boost for all clubs in the national competition.

"I know that the prospect of having a fierce rival in Sydney and all the passion of a derby game will excite everyone associated with Sydney FC," said Mr Buckley.

The $8 million funding package includes $1 million to be allocated to the development of women's football and the Westfield W-League and $3 million for the redevelopment of the Football NSW headquarters at Valentine Sports Park, Glenwood.